Industrial biotechnology is a key technology in achieving net zero and circular economy goals.

One method is through the use of fermentation to produce valuable products, whether bio-based chemicals and materials, or food.

For fermentation to be a truly valuable technology, “waste-based” feedstocks need to be used. However, the utilisation of organic waste complicates the fermentation process requiring extensive pre-treatment or the use of very specific, non-standard microorganisms which increases the cost of the process and complicates the strain development required to produce the desired product.

Currently, organic waste is typically treated by anaerobic digestion to produce carbon dioxide and methane, both of which contribute to the increasing greenhouse gas problem. Recently, there has been a growing trend in anaerobic fermentation (the first half of the anaerobic digestion process) to produce a short-chain acid mixture. The biggest problem is the recovery and purification of these acids, and if they cannot be separated what can they be used for? [1].

This project looks at the feasibility of using these acids as a feedstock for pure-culture fermentation. This facilitates the production of bio-based chemicals and materials from waste sources, providing a route to simplification of the strain and process development. You'll investigate what potential micro-organisms can be used, the microbial limitations of using these acids as a feedstock and fermentation methods/processes to overcome these biological limitations.

In addition to undertaking cutting-edge research, you'll also be registered for the Postgraduate Certificate in Researcher Development (PGCert), which is a supplementary qualification that develops a student’s skills, networks and career prospects.

[1] M. Ramos-Suarez, Y. Zhang, V. Outram, Current perspectives on acidogenic fermentation to produce volatile fatty acids from waste, Reviews in Environmental Science and Bio/Technology 20 (2021) 439-478. 

Further information

The proposed start date is 1st October 2025.